News & Media Releases
Cape Reinga planting ceremony a memorable day
June 2008
A special planting ceremony at Te Rerenga Wairua (Cape Reinga) celebrates the start of the replanting of the sacred site.
Children from the five northernmost schools: Waiharara, Pukenui, Ngataki, Te Kao and Te Hapua planted 100 pohutukawa trees together with kaumatua and kuia of Ngati Kuri and Te Aupouri, teachers, parents and grandparents.
The Arbor Day planting which took place on a beautiful clear winter's day is one that will remembered by all.
Pukenui School student Jade McBirney-Warnes shared the special day with her parents, brothers and grandmother.
"It's a very historic day for everyone. In years to come, we'll bring the children to visit the tree and then go diving at Sandy Bay," says mum Tania.
The event, organised by the Department of Conservation and Transit New Zealand celebrates the progress of the Cape Reinga project.
The project includes extensive replanting, new tracks, eco-friendly toilets and two new carparks. Transit is sealing and widening State Highway 1 from Waitiki Landing to Cape Reinga.
Twenty two students were selected from the five schools based on an art competition which invited students to create a picture of Te Rerenga Wairua and what it means to them.
They were given pohutukawa, grown from seed sourced at Te Rerenga Wairua, to care for before planting on the big day.
After the planting was finished, kaumatua Waenga Waenga unveiled a granite plaque placed in rock with the children's names marking the occasion.
His wife Sandra planted a tree on behalf of all their mokopuna.
"We've been involved in meetings about the development taking place close to ten years now and it's exciting to finally see the day when things are happening and the first planting beginning," she says.
A BBQ was enjoyed by all afterwards at Taputaputa Bay.
For more information contact: Kim Reed 09 409 4622
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